Extreme Cold, Dangerous Wind Chills Hit Massachusetts

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A powerful winter storm has brought extreme cold and dangerous wind chills to Massachusetts, with temperatures not expected to get past the teens on Sunday. The snow bands are pivoting offshore, but the Cape and Islands could still see a few more inches of accumulation. Clearing skies are expected by midnight, but the frigid temperatures and strong winds will continue into Monday.

Why it matters

The extreme cold and wind chills pose a significant risk to public safety, with the potential for power outages, transportation disruptions, and health concerns for vulnerable populations. This weather event is a stark reminder of the challenges Massachusetts residents face during the winter months.

The details

The storm system has brought heavy snow to parts of the state, with the Cape and Islands potentially seeing up to 5 inches of accumulation. The strong winds, which are expected to continue through the day, will make the cold temperatures feel even more bitterly cold, with wind chills reaching as low as 25 degrees below zero. Residents are advised to take precautions, such as dressing in warm layers, limiting time outdoors, and checking on vulnerable neighbors.

• The snow bands are expected to continue into Monday morning, with the Cape and Islands seeing the most accumulation.
• Temperatures are expected to plummet to near and below zero overnight, with wind chills reaching as low as 25 degrees below zero.
• Daytime highs on Sunday are only expected to reach the teens, making it one of the coldest days of the winter so far.

What’s next

The National Weather Service has issued a weather alert for Sunday and Monday, warning residents to take precautions against the extreme cold and wind chills. Temperatures are expected to gradually warm up later in the week, with highs reaching near average by Tuesday.